SEVERE DUTY
If your vehicle is operated under the Severe Duty conditions listed below change your engine oil and filter every 3,000 miles (5 000 km) or 3 months as indicated in the Maintenance Schedule.
- Stop and go driving.
- Driving in dusty conditions.
- Short trips of less than 16 km (10 miles).
- Trailer towing.
- Taxi, police, or delivery service (commercial service).
- Off-road or desert operation.
| Perform Maintenance Every (Where time and mileage are listed, follow the interval that occurs first.) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Maintenance Items | Miles | Kilometers | Or Months |
| Change the engine oil and engine oil filter if using your vehicle under any of the severe duty conditions: Short trips, stop and go driving, dusty or off-road conditions, police, taxi, fleet, or frequent trailer towing. | 3,000 | 5 000 | 3 |
| Or | Or | Or | |
| Change the engine oil and engine oil filter if your vehicle is NOT operated under any of the conditions listed under Severe Duty. | 7,500 | 12 000 | 6 |
| Rotate Tires. | 7,500 | 12 000 | 12 |
| If using your vehicle for any of the following: Dusty or off-road conditions. Inspect the engine air cleaner filter, replace if necessary. | 15,000 | 24 000 | 12 |
| Inspect the brake linings, replace if necessary. | 15,000 | 24 000 | 12 |
| Replace the air conditioning filter. | 15,000 | 24 000 | 12 |
| Inspect the CV Joints. Perform the first inspection at 15,000 miles (24 000 km) or 12 months. | 22,500 | 36 000 | 18 |
| Inspect Exhaust System. Perform the first inspection at 15,000 miles (24 000 km) or 12 months. | 22,500 | 36 000 | 18 |
| Inspect the front suspension, tie rod ends and boot seals, replace if necessary. | 22,500 | 36 000 | 18 |
| Replace the engine air cleaner filter. | 30,000 | 50 000 | 30 |
| Change the manual transmission fluid if using your vehicle for any of the following: trailer towing, snow plowing, heavy loading, taxi, police, delivery service (commercial service), off-road, desert operation or more then 50% of your driving is at sustained high speeds during hot weather, above 90 F (32 C). | 30,000 | 50 000 | 30 |
| Replace the spark plugs on 2.4L engine. | 30,000 | 50 000 | 30 |
| Inspect and adjust the power steering pump belt tension on 2.4L engines. | 30,000 | 50 000 | 30 |
| Inspect the generator belt on 2.4L engines, replace if necessary. | 30,000 | 50 000 | 30 |
| Change the manual transmission fluid if using your vehicle for any of the following: trailer towing, snow plowing, heavy loading, taxi, police, delivery service (commercial service), off-road, desert operation or more then 50% of your driving is at sustained high speeds during hot weather, above 90 F (32 C). | 45,000 | 72 000 | 36 |
| Change the automatic transmission fluid & filter if using your vehicle for any of the following: police, taxi, fleet or frequent trailer towing. | 60,000 | 100 000 | 60 |
| Change the manual transmission fluid if using your vehicle for any of the following: trailer towing, snow plowing, heavy loading, taxi, police, delivery service (commercial service), off-road, desert operation or more then 50% of your driving is at sustained high speeds during hot weather, above 90 F (32 C). | 60,000 | 100 000 | 60 |
| Inspect and replace PCV valve if necessary. | 90,000 | 150 000 | 90 |
| Flush and replace the engine coolant. | 102,000 | 170 000 | 60 |
| Replace the generator belt on 2.4L engine. | 102,000 | 170 000 | 102 |
| Replace the timing belt on 2.4L engine. | 102,000 | 170 000 | 102 |
| Change the automatic transmission fluid & filter. | 120,000 | 200 000 | 120 |
| Replace Accessory Drive Belt(s) on 2.4L World engines. | 120,000 | 200 000 | 120 |
REQUIRED MAINTENANCE INTERVALS
| WARNING | You can be badly injured working on or around a motor vehicle. Do only that service work for which you have the knowledge and the right equipment. If you have any doubt about your ability to perform a service job, take your vehicle to a competent mechanic. |
OIL CHANGE INDICATOR SYSTEM - IF EQUIPPED
The oil change indicator system will remind you that it is time to take your vehicle in for scheduled maintenance.
On Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) equipped vehicles "Oil Change Required" will be displayed in the EVIC and a single chime will sound, indicating that an oil change is necessary.
On Non-EVIC equipped vehicles "Change Oil" will flash in the instrument cluster odometer and a single chime will sound, indicating that an oil change is necessary.
Based on engine operation conditions the oil change indicator message will illuminate, this means that service is required for your vehicle. Have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible, within the next 500 miles (805 km).
Note. The oil change indicator message will not monitor the time since the last oil change. Change your vehicles oil if it has been 2 years since your last oil change even if the oil change indicator message is NOT illuminated. Change your engine oil every 15 000 km if you drive your vehicle off-road for an extended period of time. Under no circumstances should oil change intervals exceed (30 000 km) or 2 years, whichever occurs first.
Your dealer will reset the oil change indicator message after completing the scheduled oil change. If a scheduled oil change is performed by someone other than your dealer, the message can be reset by referring to the following procedure.
COMMON TOWING DEFINITIONS
The following trailer towing related definitions will assist you in understanding the following information
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the total allowable weight of your vehicle. This includes driver, passengers, cargo, and tongue weight. The total load must be limited so that you do not exceed the GVWR.
Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)
The Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) is the weight of the trailer plus the weight of all cargo, consumables and equipment (permanent or temporary) loaded in or on the trailer in its "loaded and ready for operation" condition. The recommended way to measure GTW is to put your fully loaded trailer on a vehicle scale. The entire weight of the trailer must be supported by the scale.
Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)
The Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) is the total permissible weight of your vehicle and trailer when weighed in combination. (Note that GCWR ratings include a 150 lbs (68 kg) allowance for the presence of a driver).
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) is the maximum capacity of the front and rear axles. Distribute the load over the front and rear axles evenly. Make sure that you do not exceed either front or rear GAWR.
| WARNING | It is important that you do not exceed the maximum front or rear GAWR. A dangerous driving condition can result if either rating is exceeded. You could lose control of the vehicle and have an accident. |
Tongue Weight (TW)
Tongue Weight (TW) is the downward force exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer. In most cases it should not be less than or more than 10% of the trailer load. You must consider this as part of the load on your vehicle.
Frontal Area
Frontal Area is the maximum height and maximum width of the front of a trailer and its cargo.
Weight-Carrying Hitch
A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer tongue weight, just as if it were luggage located at a hitch ball or some other connecting point of the truck. These kinds of hitches are the most popular on the market today and they're commonly used to tow small- and medium-sized trailers.
TRAILER HITCH CLASSIFICATION
The following chart provides the industry standard for the maximum trailer weight a given trailer hitch class can tow and should be used to assist you in selecting the correct trailer hitch for your intended towing condition. Refer to the Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings) chart for the Max. GTW towable for your given drivetrain.
| Trailer Hitch Classification | |
|---|---|
| Class | Max. GTW (Gross Trailer Wt.) |
| Class I - Light Duty | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) |
| Class II - Medium Duty | 3,500 lbs (1587 kg) |
All trailer hitches should be professionally installed on your vehicle.
TRAILER TOWING WEIGHTS (MAXIMUM TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS)
The following chart provides the maximum trailer weight ratings towable for your given drivetrain.
| Engine/Transaxle | Max. Frontal Area | Max. GTW (Gross Trailer Wt.) | Max. Tongue Wt. () |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4L/Auto | See () | 1000 lbs (450 kg) | 100 lbs (45 kg) |
| 2.7L/Auto | See () | 1500 lbs (680 kg) | 150 lbs (68 kg) |
| 3.5L/Auto | 22 Sq, Ft. (2.0 Sq. M) | 2000 lbs (900 kg) | 200 lbs (90 kg) |
| Refer to local laws for maximum trailer towing speeds. | |||
| () | The trailer tongue weight must be considered as part of the combined weight of occupants and cargo, and it should never exceed the weight referenced on the Tire and Loading Information placard. Refer to TIRES . |
| () | Enclosed trailers or open utility trailers with front shields/guards are not recommended for use with all 4 cylinder and 2.7L engines with automatic transaxle. Please refer to the following website, http://www-5.chrysler.com/searchapp/ui.jsp or your dealer for additional information. |
| CAUTION | Towing a trailer with a larger than recommended frontal area could cause the engine to overheat or cause severe engine damage under extreme conditions. |
TRAILER AND TONGUE WEIGHT
Always load a trailer with 60% to 65% of the weight in the front of the trailer. This places 10% of the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) on the tow hitch of your vehicle. Loads balanced over the wheels or heavier in the rear can cause the trailer to sway severely side to side which will cause loss of control of vehicle and trailer. Failure to load trailers heavier in front is the cause of many trailer accidents.
Never exceed the maximum tongue weight stamped on your bumper or trailer hitch.
Scheme 10
Consider the following items when computing the weight on the rear axle of the vehicle
- The tongue weight of the trailer.
- The weight of any other type of cargo or equipment put in or on your vehicle.
- The weight of the driver and all passengers.
Note. Remember that everything put into or on the trailer adds to the load on your vehicle. Also, additional factory-installed options, or dealer-installed options, must be considered as part of the total load on your vehicle. Refer to the "Tire and Loading Information" placard for the maximum combined weight of occupants and cargo for your vehicle.
| CAUTION | Incorrect tongue weight could result in increased yaw or vehicle instability. A negative tongue weight could unload the rear suspension of the tow vehicle decreasing vehicle stability. Negative tongue weight could cause the trailer to squat and potentially become disengaged from the tow vehicle resulting in a runaway trailer condition. |
TOWING REQUIREMENTS
To promote proper break-in of your new vehicle drivetrain components the following guidelines are recommended
| CAUTION | Avoid towing a trailer for the first 500 miles (805 km) of vehicle operation. Doing so may damage your vehicle. During the first 500 miles (805 km) of trailer towing, limit your speed to 50 mph (80 km/h). |
Perform the schedule maintenance listed in LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE . When towing a trailer, never exceed the GAWR, or GCWR, ratings.
| WARNING | Improper towing can lead to an injury accident. Follow these guidelines to make your trailer towing as safe as possible: Make certain that the load is secured in the trailer and that it will not shift during travel. When trailering cargo that is not fully secured, dynamic load shifts can occur that may be difficult for the driver to control. You could lose control of your vehicle and have an accident. |
- When hauling cargo, or towing a trailer, do not overload your vehicle or trailer. Overloading can cause a loss of control, poor performance, or damage to brakes, axle, engine, transaxle, steering, suspension, chassis structure, or tires.
- Safety chains must always be used between your vehicle and trailer. Always connect the chains to the frame or hook retainers of the vehicle hitch. Cross the chains under the trailer tongue and allow enough slack for turning corners.
- Vehicles with trailers should not be parked on a grade. When parking, apply the parking brake on the tow vehicle. Put the tow vehicle automatic transaxle in P for Park. Always, block or "chock" the trailer wheels.
- GCWR must not be exceeded.
- Total weight must be distributed between the tow vehicle and the trailer such that the following four ratings are not exceeded: GVWR GTW GAWR Tongue weight rating for the trailer hitch utilized (This requirement may limit the ability to always achieve 10% of tongue weight as a percentage of total trailer weight).
Towing Requirements - Tires
- Do not attempt to tow a trailer while using a compact spare tire.
- Proper tire inflation pressures are essential to the safe and satisfactory operation of your vehicle.
- Also, check the trailer tires for proper tire inflation pressures before trailer usage.
- Check for signs of tire wear or visible tire damage before towing a trailer.
- When replacing tires, refer to «TIRES»(ref-305760-S32867296612008120200000) for information on replacement tires and for proper tire replacement procedures. Replacing tires with a higher load carrying capacity will not increase the vehicle's GVWR and GAWR limits.
Towing Requirements - Trailer Brakes
- Do not interconnect the hydraulic brake system or vacuum system of your vehicle with that of the trailer. This could cause inadequate braking and possible personal injury.
- An electronically actuated trailer brake controller is required when towing a trailer with electronically actuated brakes. When towing a trailer equipped with a hydraulic surge actuated brake system, an electronic brake controller is not required.
- Trailer brakes are recommended for trailers over 1,000 lbs (450 kg) and required for trailers in excess of 2,000 lbs (907 kg).
| CAUTION | If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lbs (450 kg) loaded, it should have its own brakes, and they should be of adequate capacity. Failure to do this could lead to accelerated brake lining wear, higher brake pedal effort, and longer stopping distances. |
| WARNING | Do not connect trailer brakes to your vehicle's hydraulic brake lines. It can overload your brake system and cause it to fail. You might not have brakes when you need them and could have an accident. Towing any trailer will increase your stopping distance. When towing, you should allow for additional space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. Failure to do so could result in an accident. |
TOWING TIPS
Before setting out on a trip, practice turning, stopping, and backing the trailer in an area located away from heavy traffic.
Make sure all trailer and vehicle lights are working properly - including hazard flashers.
Towing Tips - Automatic Transmission
The "D" range can be selected when towing. However, if frequent shifting occurs while in this range, the "3" range should be selected.
Note. Using the "3" range while operating the vehicle under heavy operating conditions will improve performance and extend transaxle life by reducing excessive shifting and heat build up. This action will also provide better engine braking.
The automatic transaxle fluid and filter should be changed if you REGULARLY tow a trailer for more than 45 minutes of continuous operation. See MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES for transaxle fluid change intervals.
Note. Check the automatic transaxle fluid level before towing.
Towing Tips - Electronic Speed Control (If Equipped)
- Don't use in hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
- When using the speed control, if you experience speed drops greater than 10 mph (16 km/h), disengage until you can get back to cruising speed.
- Use speed control in flat terrain and with light loads to maximize fuel efficiency.
Towing Tips - Cooling System
To reduce potential for engine and transaxle overheating, take the following actions
- City Driving - When stopped for short periods of time, put transmission in neutral and increase engine idle speed.
- Highway Driving - Reduce speed.
- Air Conditioning - Turn off temporarily.
- Refer to «COOLING»(ref-305776) .
If you have any questions or concerns after reviewing this article, please consult your dealer to for full details on the towing capabilities of the vehicle.